What does Exodus 25:8 mean?
ESV: And let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell in their midst.
NIV: "Then have them make a sanctuary for me, and I will dwell among them.
NASB: Have them construct a sanctuary for Me, so that I may dwell among them.
CSB: "They are to make a sanctuary for me so that I may dwell among them.
NLT: Have the people of Israel build me a holy sanctuary so I can live among them.
KJV: And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them.
NKJV: And let them make Me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them.
Verse Commentary:
God has made a list of materials which Israelites are to donate as they feel led (Exodus 25:1–7). These include precious metals, valuable materials, and gemstones. Most of these would have come from Israel's plunder of Egypt (Exodus 3:21–22; 11:2–3; 12:33–36). Others could have been taken as spoils of war after defeating the Amalekites (Exodus 17:8, 13). Israel is to use these to craft a unique structure known as the "tabernacle" (Exodus 25:9).
God will "dwell" in this portable temple, though not in a physical form. The sanctuary would become the physical center of worship and sacrifice for Israel. The ark of the covenant (Exodus 25:10–11) kept inside is a special focal point of Israelite faith (Exodus 25:22). The word used here for this "sanctuary" is the Hebrew miqdās', which most literally means "a holy place." Much of the rest of Exodus is taken up by detailed instructions for this edifice and its sacred objects.
Verse Context:
Exodus 25:1–9 establishes a collection for materials to make sacred objects. The Israelites are to offer precious gems, metals, cloth, building materials, and oils. Much of this probably came from Egyptians who begged their former slaves to leave (Exodus 3:21–22; 11:2–3; 12:33–36). Some may be spoils from the defeat of the Amalekites (Exodus 17:8, 13). The resources will be used to make a sanctuary for worship and sacrifice. This will be a "tabernacle:" a large tent. The design of each component is detailed and must be followed exactly.
Chapter Summary:
Israelites are to contribute precious metals, cloth, oils, and other resources to create a sanctuary for worship and sacrifice. These will be used to form various sacred objects. Among these are the renowned ark of the covenant, a table for consecrated bread, and a lampstand with seven ornate lamps. These will be kept in the most sacred parts of the sanctuary. Upcoming chapters will focus on an elaborate tent which will serve as a portable temple (Exodus 26—28).
Chapter Context:
The Lord has given the foundations of His covenant to Israel (Exodus 20—23) and they have affirmed it (Exodus 24). Now God gives Moses detailed instructions for a system of worship. This begins with designs for a sacred container—the ark of the covenant—as well as a table and lampstand. These will be kept in the "tabernacle:" an ornate tent used as a portable temple for Israel (Exodus 26—28).
Book Summary:
The book of Exodus establishes God's covenant relationship with the full-fledged nation of Israel. The descendants of Abraham prosper after settling in Egypt, only to be enslaved by a fearful, hateful Egyptian Pharaoh. God appoints Moses to lead the people out of this bondage. Moses serves as God's spokesman, as the Lord brings plagues and judgments on Egypt, leading to the release of Israel.
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